Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and China’s Special Envoy Xue Bing discussed boosting cooperation in security, trade, and diplomacy. The meeting also highlighted China’s efforts to counter Taiwan’s influence in Somalia’s Somaliland region.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed Xue Bing, China’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Affairs, in Mogadishu on Tuesday to advance bilateral cooperation. Discussions focused on strengthening partnerships in security, trade, education, politics, and diplomacy to foster mutual interests and stability.
President Mohamud commended Somalia’s achievements in security and development while underscoring the vast investment opportunities available for China. He emphasized Somalia’s readiness to confront regional challenges and promote growth through international partnerships.
Ambassador Xue Bing praised Somalia’s progress in combating terrorism and fostering peace, reaffirming China’s commitment to mutual respect and peaceful collaboration. He highlighted Beijing’s strategic interest in deepening its role in Somalia.
The Wall Africa Journal notes that China’s engagement in Somalia extends beyond trade. Since 2020, Taiwan has increased its presence in Africa, opening a representative office in Somaliland, Somalia’s separatist region. This move, Taiwan’s second in Africa after Eswatini, angered China, which views it as a challenge to its “One China” policy. In response, Beijing has reinforced ties with the SSC Khatumo administration, a region that recently distanced itself from Somaliland, as part of its strategy to curb Taiwan’s influence.
The meeting between Somali and Chinese officials underscores China’s proactive foreign policy in the Horn of Africa, balancing economic investment with diplomatic initiatives. Both sides expressed a shared vision for stability, peace, and long-term cooperation.